The Transfiguration of Jesus Christ on Mount Tabor is one of the great Christian holidays. According to the Gospel, during this event, Christ changes his appearance before the three apostles - Peter, James and John, and His face and clothes shone with a bright light. The prophets Moses and Ilya also appear, who talk to Him. The holiday symbolizes the divine nature of Christ.
Theological interpretation of the holiday
The transfiguration of Jesus Christ, when His face shone, and the voice of God appeared from behind the clouds, shows that in Jesus two natures are combined - divine and human. Christ's divine nature became visible through His human flesh. John Chrysostom believes that this happened to show us how the future transformation of our being will be and how Christ will come in glory on clouds with angels.
The appearance of Moses and Elijah symbolizes that Christ has power over life and death, and rules over everything. Moses and Elijah appeared to show this authority. The prophets were happy because they saw the human body of Christ, which they had not seen before, and the apostles were happy because they saw the glory of the Divinity of Christ, which they did not understand before. The voice of God confirms that Jesus is the Son of God.
This holiday also shows the unity of the Old and New Testaments. On the mountain where the Transfiguration took place, Jesus united the two covenants and showed that He was the One who gave them.
What does "transformation" mean in other aspects
Art
The painting by the Italian artist Raphael "The Transfiguration" was painted in 1520 and is one of the most significant paintings in his work. The painting depicts the scene of the Transfiguration of Christ, with one of the most striking aspects of the artistic composition – the contrast between light and darkness. It is divided into two parts: the upper part, where the Transfiguration of Christ is depicted, and the lower part, where the apostles try to heal a boy possessed by a demon, which symbolizes the struggle between good and evil.
Psychological aspect
In psychology, transformation can refer to significant changes in a person's personal development. This may be related to personal growth, improvement of self-esteem, change of views and values. For example, a person may experience a transformation following important life events, such as a change in career, relationship, or spiritual awakening. This process can include introspection, self-reflection, and efforts to achieve new goals and change behavior.
Biological aspect
The process of metamorphosis in insects is one of the most impressive forms of biological transformation. For example, butterflies go through four main developmental stages: egg, caterpillar, pupa, and adult butterfly. Each stage has its purpose and function in the life cycle of an insect. The caterpillar turns into a pupa, where tissues and organs transform into a new form of an adult butterfly.
Philosophical aspect
In philosophy and spiritual practices, transformation can mean profound changes in a person's personality and consciousness. This can be related to personal growth, moral and ethical changes, as well as the development of new skills and qualities.
